Tale the Third

Ere they went on shipboard, the pilgrims them besought Kindly to take the clothing they with them had brought. However shy were the maidens, to wear them they were ready; They donned the clothes with blushes, and now their sorrow had an ending speedy.

Soon as the lovely maidens embarked upon the wave, They heartily were greeted by knights both good and brave, Who to the high-born daughters welcome to give were heedful; Tho’ they at first mistook them, and thought them wicked elves, or mermaids dreadful.